What was it all about?

This project helped the Australian banana industry respond to major challenges affecting grower profitability, productivity and sustainability, while also supporting new opportunities for innovation. Ongoing threats such as Fusarium wilt TR4 mean research, development and extension remain important for managing disease, limiting its spread and strengthening the industry over time.  

The industry also faces significant issues in biosecurity, particularly the risk of imports, as well as fruit quality, limited diversification, waste management and workforce pressures. For this reason, it was critical that the industry had access to technical and R&D adoption expertise to guide the banana R&D program.

Working closely with Hort Innovation and industry stakeholders, the project coordinated research investments, identified industry priorities and supported the communication of research outcomes. Technical advice was provided on issues including Fusarium wilt tropical race 4 (TR4), biosecurity, crop protection, varieties and sustainable production practices. Knowledge sharing was supported through industry meetings, reference groups, Science Symposia, Banana Congress events and industry communications.  

Major industry challenges such as TR4, biosecurity threats, fruit quality issues, waste management and workforce pressures drove the need for the project. Improved coordination, stronger collaboration and better communication across the banana RD&E program helped increase awareness of research developments and industry priorities and support industry productivity, profitability and sustainability.